NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scrapping the two child limit to help end child poverty

    Source: Scottish Government

    Shirley-Anne Somerville announces start date for key policy.

    The Scottish Government will effectively scrap the impact of the two-child limit from 2nd March 2026, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has confirmed.

    On a visit to Busy Bees Bellfield parent and toddler group in Portobello, Ms Somerville said the introduction of the Two Child Limit Payment will mean 20,000 fewer children will be living in relative poverty in 2026-27, according to Scottish Government modelling.

    Speaking ahead of a statement to parliament on the publication of the annual report on Best Start, Bright Futures, the Scottish Government’s child poverty strategy, Ms Somerville said:

    “The Scottish Government has consistently called on the UK Government to end the two-child cap. Reports suggest that they are looking at the impact it is having. But the evidence is clear and families and Scotland can’t wait any longer for the UK Government to make up its mind to do the right thing and scrap the cap once and for all.

    “The Two Child Limit Payment will begin accepting applications in March next year. At less than 15 months from when we announced this in the Scottish budget, this will be the fastest that a Scottish social security benefit has been delivered.

    “This builds upon the considerable action we have taken in Scotland, including delivering unparalleled financial support through our Scottish Child Payment, investing to clear school meal debts, and continuing to support almost 10,000 children by mitigating the UK Government’s Benefit Cap as fully as possible.

    “However, austerity decisions taken by the UK Government are holding back Scotland’s progress. Modelling published in March makes clear that if the UK Government act decisively on child poverty, they could help to take an estimated 100,000 children out of poverty this year.”

    Background:

    • On average, households with children in the poorest 10% of households are, this year, estimated to be £2,600 a year better off because of Scottish Government policies. This is projected to grow to an average of £3,700 a year by 2029-30. Child poverty modelling: update – gov.scot
    • Scrapping the Two Child Limit will help keep thousands of children out of poverty and reduce the depth of poverty faced for many more. The Scottish Government’s own modelling suggests 20,000 fewer children will be living in relative poverty in 2026-27 once this payment is introduced and the Scottish Fiscal Commission estimates that overall around 43,000 children in Scotland will benefit from mitigation of the two-child limit in 2026-27.
    • The Scottish Fiscal Commission has estimated the cost of the Two Child Limit Payment to be £155 million in the  financial year 2026-2027.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal

    British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal as further details announced

    • UK aerospace sector to see tariffs removed completely as further progress is made on the UK-US trade deal
    • Benefits of deal to be felt by UK auto sector also, who will be able to export to the US by the end of the month under the newly lowered 10% tariff quota 
    • It will save hundreds of millions annually for plane and car makers with lowered tariffs and protect tens of thousands of jobs across both sectors , delivering on our Plan for Change

    For the first time, the US has committed to reducing tariffs on UK aerospace goods such as engines and similar aircraft parts from the general 10% tariff being applied to all other countries, which is expected to come into force by the end of the month.

    This deal is a huge win for the UK’s world-class aerospace sector currently facing additional 10% tariffs, helping make companies such as Rolls Royce more competitive and allowing them to continue to be at the cutting edge of innovation. 

    British car manufacturers can also breathe a sigh of relief as they will be able to export to the US at a 10% tariff rate as part of the recently agreed landmark UK-US trade deal by the end of the month.  

    The UK is the only country to have secured this agreement with the US which reduces car export tariffs from 27.5%, saves car manufacturers hundreds of millions a year, and protects tens of thousands of jobs, delivering on our Plan for Change.

    Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    We agreed this deal with the US to ensure jobs and livelihoods in some of our most vital sectors were protected, and since then we have been focused on delivering those benefits to businesses. 

    Bringing trade deals into force can take several months, yet we are delivering on the first set of agreements in a matter of weeks. And we won’t stop there. 

    As part of our Plan for Change, this government is doing all it can to reduce the pressures on businesses by lowering costs, speeding up delivery times and helping them to navigate in a time of global uncertainty.  

    Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Mike Hawes said:

    This is great news for the UK automotive industry, helping the sector avoid the severest level of tariffs and enabling many manufacturers to resume deliveries imminently.

    We wait to see the full details of the deal and how it will be administered but this will be a huge reassurance to those that work in the sector and bolster the confidence of our important US customers.

    The fact the UK has secured a deal, ahead of many competitors, and which makes automotive a priority, should be recognised as a significant achievement.

    Thanks to the UK-US deal, the UK is the only country to be exempt from the global tariff of 50% on steel and aluminium. As the Prime Minister and President Trump have again confirmed, we will continue to go further and make progress towards 0% tariffs on core steel products as agreed.  

    We have agreed reciprocal access to 13,000 metric tonnes beef for both US and British farmers – meaning the UK can export to the US too. We have been clear that any US imports will need to meet UK food safety standards, and that has not changed since we agreed this deal.

    Both countries remain focused on securing significantly preferential outcomes for the UK pharmaceutical sector and work will continue to protect industry from any further tariffs imposed as part of Section 232 investigations. 

    This deal is one of many international agreements this government has secured recently to boost our economy, including a trade deal with India which will add £4.8 billion to the UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year and a renewed EU deal which will add nearly £9 billion to the UK economy by 2040 on SPS and emissions measures alone. 

    Today’s announcement is the result of work happening at pace between both governments to lower the burden on UK businesses, especially the sectors most impacted by the tariffs. We will update Parliament on the implementation of quotas on US beef and ethanol, part of our commitment to the US under this deal.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Be summer-job ready with the HMRC app

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Be summer-job ready with the HMRC app

    Download the HMRC app for summer job success

    • Young people applying for a job this summer can download the HMRC app for instant access to the tax and salary details they need
    • More than 1.2 million young people aged 25 and under have downloaded the HMRC app to date
    • The HMRC app can be used to access an individual’s National Insurance number, employer history, tax code and pay details

    Young people finishing school, college or university and hoping to earn extra cash after their exams can download the HMRC app to get the details they need to be summer-job ready, says HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

    Jobseekers who use the HMRC app have their employment history to hand to get their job application in promptly. Once they start working, the HMRC app means they will have their tax code and National Insurance (NI) number to give to their employer to ensure they are paid correctly and pay the correct amount of tax, putting more money in the pockets of working people

    Between May and August last year, on average 40,000 additional young people were employed each month compared to September to December. Whether young people are looking for work in the hospitality industry, leisure, retail or fruit picking, downloading the HMRC app makes applying for a job simple, giving them instant access to the tax and salary details they need with minimal fuss.

    Young people make up a fifth of all HMRC app users with more than 1.2 million people aged 25 and under downloading it by April 2025.

    Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said:

    Earning extra cash is important when young people have down time from studying. Downloading the HMRC app is a simple way to ensure they can apply for their job quickly and get on with earning extra cash.

    One of the most important pieces of information jobseekers need when starting a new job is their NI number. More than 146,000 people called the National Insurance helpline in the 12 months to the beginning of April reporting they had lost or forgotten their NI number.

    It’s quicker and easier for individuals to access their NI number via the HMRC app. They can download it to keep it safely in their phone’s digital wallet to use whenever it’s needed. In the 12 months to April 2025, there were almost 90,000 NI number downloads by app users aged 25 and under.

    Young people should keep their National Insurance number safe in their digital wallets and only share it with people, such as an employer, to help prevent possible identity fraud.

    HMRC is also reminding young people starting a new job to check their payslips regularly to ensure they’re getting paid what they’re entitled to receive under National Minimum Wage requirements. If they have any concerns they are not getting the correct pay, they can contact HMRC or ACAS to make a complaint.

    Further Information

    More information about the HMRC app. 

    People can download the app at the App Store or Google Play. Online reviews for the HMRC app is currently [4.8] stars on the App Store, and [4.6] stars on Google Play. 

    Once a customer has signed into the app for the first time, they can use facial recognition, their fingerprint or a 6-digit pin to get fast and secure access. 

    Customers who don’t have a Government Gateway user ID and password and may need evidence to prove their identity for example photo ID such as a UK passport or UK driving licence. 

    We’re urging customers never to share their Government Gateway user ID and password. Someone using these details could steal from them or make a fraudulent claim in their name.

    The current National Minimum Wage hourly rates, which increased on 1 April 2025, are:

    • Age 21 or over (National Living Wage): £12.21
    • Age 18 to 20: £10.00
    • Age under 18: £7.55

    Further detail and previous rates can be found on GOV.UK

    Latest earnings and employment statistics May 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Namibia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 17, 2025

    • Namibia’s economy faces challenges from heightened global trade policy tensions, increased weather shocks, a structural shift in the global diamond market, and high structural unemployment.
    • Ensuring macroeconomic stability requires maintaining fiscal prudence while creating space for growth-enhancing measures, managing the monetary policy to safeguard the peg, and enhancing the resilience of the financial sector.
    • To generate employment through inclusive private sector-led growth that is weather-shock-resilient, bold structural reforms are essential. Additionally, a comprehensive strategy is needed to leverage the potential opportunities presented by recent oil discoveries.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Article IV Consultation for Namibia.[1] The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2]

    Namibia’s economic growth decelerated from 5.4 percent in 2022 to 3.7 percent in 2024 as a decline in production in response to lower diamond prices outweighed momentum stemming from rising gold and uranium prices. Oil exploration plateaued in 2024 following a spike in 2023, while agriculture contracted sharply due to the drought of 2023–24, the most severe in a century. Inflation has fallen, reflecting a drop in food and fuel prices in international markets.

    Looking ahead, growth is projected to remain subdued in the near and medium term. The end of the drought is expected to boost growth in 2025; however, increased global trade policy uncertainty, particularly related to U.S. tariffs, and the weak diamond market will dampen momentum, with growth forecast at 3¾ percent for 2025 and 2026. Over the medium term, growth is projected to be about 3 percent, constrained by structural rigidities despite increased public capital expenditure. Average CPI inflation is projected to ease to 4.1 percent in 2025 and remain around 4.5 percent in the medium term.

    Risks to the outlook are tilted to the downside. Key external downside risks include commodity price fluctuations, further worsening of global trade tensions, a deepening of economic fragmentation, and tighter global financial conditions. Domestic downside risks include social discontent resulting from continued high unemployment and inequality and increased volatility associated with weather shocks. Upside risks include an easing of global trade policy tensions and faster development of oil, gas, and green hydrogen projects.

    Executive Board Assessment[3]

    Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They took positive note of Namibia’s economic resilience, with slowing inflation and improved external position, despite the challenging external environment and welcomed the new government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and build resilience to climate shocks. Noting the subdued growth outlook reflecting global trade policy uncertainty and domestic structural rigidities, high unemployment, and inequality, Directors emphasized the need for further efforts to harness Namibia’s economic potential and raise per capita income by promoting a private sector led, inclusive, weather resilient, and diversified economy.

    Directors welcomed the authorities’ commitment to maintaining fiscal discipline and creating space for growth enhancing measures. They called for sustained and larger fiscal consolidation over the medium term to entrench the favorable public debt dynamics and strengthen the external position. Directors stressed the need to accelerate fiscal reforms including enacting a comprehensive civil service reform to contain the wage bill, state owned enterprise reforms, strengthening public financial and investment management, and enhancing tax administration to solidify fiscal consolidation. At the same time, they recommended increasing public investment to enhance growth, expanding social protection, and building resilience to weather shocks. They encouraged the authorities to continue their efforts to establish, with Fund technical assistance, a strong governance framework for the sovereign wealth fund and a natural resource management framework to safeguard long term macroeconomic stability and support economic development.

    In the absence of capital outflows, Directors recommended gradually aligning the policy rate with that of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to safeguard the currency peg, taking advantage of SARB’s rate reductions. They stressed, however, that the Bank of Namibia should remain vigilant to economic conditions.

    Directors welcomed the continued progress in enhancing financial sector resilience, notably through the introduction of the bank resolution policy. They encouraged the authorities to continue to monitor risks including from the sovereign bank nexus and household debt. Directors recommended finalizing additional policy measures, including counter cyclical capital buffers and strengthened cooperation on crisis resolution. Continued efforts to strengthen the AML/CFT framework are crucial to expedite removal from the FATF grey list.

    Directors highlighted that bold structural reforms are essential to fostering sustainable, inclusive, and private sector led growth and improving external competitiveness. They recommended addressing key barriers, including by improving human capital and reducing skill mismatches, enhancing the business climate, strengthening governance, and fostering digitalization. Directors supported developing a set of policies aimed at harnessing prospective oil, gas, and green hydrogen for economic diversification and job creation.

    It is expected that the next Article IV Consultation with Namibia will be held on the standard 12-month cycle.

     

    Namibia: Selected Economic Indicators, 2022–30

    Population (2024, million):                                      3.0                           Per-capita GDP (2024, USD):                                                        4471.8

    Quota (current, millions of SDR, percent of total):  54.6                          Poverty (2015, percent of national poverty line):                         17.4

    Main exports:                                                          Diamonds, Fish, Gold, Uranium, Copper.

    Key export markets:                                                South Africa, Botswana, China, Zambia, and Belgium.

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    Est.

    Proj.
                       

    Percent change, unless otherwise specified

    Output

    		                  

    Real GDP growth

    5.4

    4.4

    3.7

    3.8

    3.7

    2.9

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    Nominal GDP growth

    12.2

    11.3

    7.1

    8.8

    9.3

    7.4

    7.6

    7.6

    7.6

    Nominal GDP (billions of USD)

    205.6

    228.9

    245.1

    266.8

    291.7

    313.4

    337.1

    362.5

    389.9

    Nominal GDP per capita (USD)

    4,407

    4,236

    4,472

    4,673

    4,898

    5,037

    5,192

    5,346

    5,513

    GDP Deflator

    6.4

    6.6

    3.3

    4.9

    5.5

    4.4

    4.4

    4.4

    4.4

    Prices

    Consumer prices (average)

    6.1

    5.9

    4.2

    4.1

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Consumer prices (end of period)

    6.9

    5.3

    3.4

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Percent of GDP, unless otherwise specified

    Central Government Budget 1/

    Revenue and grants 2/

    30.5

    35.1

    36.5

    33.2

    32.8

    33.1

    33.3

    33.3

    33.3

      of which: SACU receipts

    6.7

    10.5

    11.2

    7.7

    7.9

    8.2

    8.5

    8.5

    8.4

    Expenditure

    36.1

    37.6

    40.4

    38.8

    37.7

    36.8

    36.6

    36.5

    36.5

      Of which: personnel expenditure

    14.9

    13.9

    14.1

    13.5

    12.8

    12.3

    12.2

    12.2

    12.2

      Of which: capital expenditure and net lending

    3.1

    2.9

    3.9

    4.0

    3.9

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    Primary balance

    -1.2

    2.7

    1.2

    -0.5

    0.2

    1.4

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    Overall fiscal balance

    -5.7

    -2.4

    -3.9

    -5.7

    -4.8

    -3.7

    -3.3

    -3.3

    -3.3

    Overall fiscal balance ex. SACU

    -12.4

    -12.8

    -15.1

    -13.4

    -12.8

    -12.0

    -11.8

    -11.7

    -11.7

    Public debt, gross

    67.5

    66.0

    66.2

    62.3

    62.2

    62.0

    61.1

    60.1

    59.3

    Investment and Savings

    Investment

    20.1

    27.3

    25.6

    22.1

    19.0

    17.8

    16.8

    16.8

    16.8

      Public

    2.6

    2.4

    2.4

    2.6

    2.5

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

      Others (incl. SOEs)

    14.1

    23.7

    21.3

    19.5

    16.5

    15.5

    14.5

    14.5

    14.5

      Change inventories

    3.4

    1.2

    2.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Savings

    7.3

    12.0

    10.3

    6.6

    5.4

    5.2

    4.6

    5.1

    5.5

      Public

    -3.2

    -0.2

    0.1

    -1.3

    -1.1

    -0.4

    0.1

    0.2

    0.2

      Others (incl. SOEs)

    10.6

    12.2

    10.2

    7.9

    6.5

    5.6

    4.5

    4.8

    5.3

    Percent change, unless otherwise specified

    Money and Credit

    Broad money

    0.0

    10.7

    9.7

    9.1

    8.6

    7.9

    8.4

    7.7

    7.6

    Credit to the private sector

    4.2

    2.8

    3.5

    4.9

    6.2

    4.1

    5.4

    5.5

    5.5

    BoN repo rate (percent) 3/

    6.75

    7.75

    7.00

    6.75

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
     

                                                                                       Percent of GDP, unless otherwise specified

    Balance of Payments

    		                    

    Current account balance

    -12.6

    -15.3

    -15.3

    -15.5

    -13.7

    -12.6

    -12.1

    -11.7

    -11.3

    Financial account balance

    -13.3

    -15.9

    -17.2

    -9.3

    -15.4

    -13.6

    -12.3

    -11.8

    -11.8

    Gross official reserves

    22.3

    23.2

    25.1

    18.4

    20.1

    21.2

    21.5

    21.6

    22.2

    Reserves (in months of imports)

    3.9

    3.8

    4.4

    3.4

    3.8

    4.1

    4.2

    4.2

    4.5

    External debt

    71.7

    76.0

    74.6

    68.0

    67.5

    66.8

    65.5

    63.6

    61.8

    of which: public (incl. IMF) 4/

    17.5

    16.6

    14.7

    7.9

    7.3

    6.8

    6.4

    6.0

    5.5

    Exchange rate

    REER (percent, yoy)

    -3.6

    -6.3

    2.7

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Average exchange rate (Namibian dollar per USD)

    16.4

    18.5

    18.3

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Namibian authorities; and IMF staff calculations.

    1/ Figures are for the fiscal year as a percent of GDP. The fiscal year runs from April 1 to March 31.

    2/ Revenue excludes the line “transactions in assets and liabilities” classified as part of revenue in budget documents. It captures proceeds from asset sales, realized valuation gains from holdings of foreign currency deposits, and other items which are not classified as revenue according to the IMF’s Government Finance Statistics Manual 2010.

    3/ Figure for 2025 is as of April 16, 2025.

    4/ The ratio is calculated by dividing the stock as March 31 by nominal GDP for the fiscal year.
                                           

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] Under the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, publication of documents that pertain to member countries is voluntary and requires the member consent. The staff report will be shortly published on the www.imf.org/Namibia page.

    [3] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chair of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Kwabena Akuamoah-Boateng

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/13/pr-25198-namibia-imf-executive-board-concludes-2025-art-iv-consult

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder investigation launched after fatal stabbing in Hackney

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a woman at an address in Dumont Road, Hackney.

    On Tuesday, 17 June at 04:57hrs officers were called to reports of a gas explosion with a person trapped inside an address.

    Officers attended alongside the London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade.

    A woman aged 46 was found inside the property with stab wounds. Despite the efforts of paramedics, she was sadly declared dead at the scene.

    A 44-year-old man was arrested at the address on suspicion of murder. He was taken to hospital with slash wounds where he currently remains. His condition is not life-changing or life-threatening.

    Two children ages 9 and 7 have also been taken to hospital as a precaution but are not believed to have been inside the property at the time of the gas explosion.

    Local road closures are in place while enquiries continue. There are also additional officers on patrol in the local area.

    Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 926/17June or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: EngageLab Empowers Tea Beverage Brand Global Expansion with Customer Engagement Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EngageLab, a leading omni-channel customer engagement platform provider, is proud to announce its successful partnership with a prominent Chinese tea beverage brand, supporting the company’s global expansion through EngageLab’s high-delivery rate AppPush notification capabilities. This Chinese new tea beverage brand has recently achieved a significant breakthrough in overseas markets by presenting Eastern tea culture through a modern lens. Built on a foundation of premium original leaf tea, the brand has strategically expanded across global markets through carefully tailored localization strategies. The company has successfully established thousands of stores across more than 100 countries and regions, positioning itself as a leading Chinese brand in the fresh-made tea beverage sector throughout Southeast Asia, North America, and other key markets worldwide.

    With rapid business growth and global expansion, the brand encountered challenges in its overseas notification services, such as unstable channel quality and unreliable message delivery. These issues impacted user experience and the efficiency of global operations.

    To address these challenges, the brand partnered with EngageLab, adopting its AppPush solution to comprehensively optimize overseas messaging services and achieve three major improvements:

    • Superior Delivery Capabilities Supporting Global Expansion
      As the brand expanded to over 100 countries, especially in emerging markets like Southeast Asia, complex network environments posed challenges to efficient communication. EngageLab AppPush integrated international mainstream system channels such as FCM and APNS, along with major smartphone manufacturer push channels including Xiaomi, Huawei, OPPO, vivo, and self-built enhanced channels. This improved message delivery rates by approximately 40%, providing robust technical support for global operations.
    • Intelligent Cross-Regional Push Notifications Enabling Localized Operations
      Operating across diverse countries and regions, the brand faced varying user needs and operational strategies. EngageLab AppPush’s dynamic AppKey switching function brought tremendous convenience. When users switch countries within the app, the SDK can apply corresponding country/regional SDK configurations through simple API calls. This enables the brand to flexibly develop and implement independent push strategies, user behavior tracking, and marketing campaigns for different markets, without the need to develop and maintain multiple app versions, significantly reducing development and maintenance costs and enhancing regional market responsiveness.
    • Global Multi-Data Center Layout Ensuring Compliant Operations
      In a global environment where data sovereignty and privacy protection are highly valued, compliant handling of user data is crucial for international enterprises. EngageLab has deployed distributed data centers in multiple strategic locations worldwide (including Singapore, Virginia USA, Frankfurt Germany, Hong Kong China, etc.), providing robust localized data compliance solutions. The brand can intelligently select the most appropriate data storage and processing nodes based on users’ regions, strictly adhering to local privacy regulatory requirements.

    About EngageLab
    EngageLab is a world-leading AI-powered omnichannel customer engagement solution provider, unites technology and versatility to offer seamless customer interactions across every channel, including Email, AppPush, WebPush, OTP, SMS and WhatsApp Business. It empowers businesses to build lasting relationships and achieve higher conversions and retention. With a strong focus on innovation and performance, EngageLab supports businesses in over 220 countries and regions, delivering more than 1 million messages every second across various channels.

    For more information about EngageLab and its suite of solutions, visit www.engagelab.com.

    For Media Inquiries:
    Contact: marketing@engagelab.com
    Website: www.engagelab.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: EngageLab Empowers Tea Beverage Brand Global Expansion with Customer Engagement Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EngageLab, a leading omni-channel customer engagement platform provider, is proud to announce its successful partnership with a prominent Chinese tea beverage brand, supporting the company’s global expansion through EngageLab’s high-delivery rate AppPush notification capabilities. This Chinese new tea beverage brand has recently achieved a significant breakthrough in overseas markets by presenting Eastern tea culture through a modern lens. Built on a foundation of premium original leaf tea, the brand has strategically expanded across global markets through carefully tailored localization strategies. The company has successfully established thousands of stores across more than 100 countries and regions, positioning itself as a leading Chinese brand in the fresh-made tea beverage sector throughout Southeast Asia, North America, and other key markets worldwide.

    With rapid business growth and global expansion, the brand encountered challenges in its overseas notification services, such as unstable channel quality and unreliable message delivery. These issues impacted user experience and the efficiency of global operations.

    To address these challenges, the brand partnered with EngageLab, adopting its AppPush solution to comprehensively optimize overseas messaging services and achieve three major improvements:

    • Superior Delivery Capabilities Supporting Global Expansion
      As the brand expanded to over 100 countries, especially in emerging markets like Southeast Asia, complex network environments posed challenges to efficient communication. EngageLab AppPush integrated international mainstream system channels such as FCM and APNS, along with major smartphone manufacturer push channels including Xiaomi, Huawei, OPPO, vivo, and self-built enhanced channels. This improved message delivery rates by approximately 40%, providing robust technical support for global operations.
    • Intelligent Cross-Regional Push Notifications Enabling Localized Operations
      Operating across diverse countries and regions, the brand faced varying user needs and operational strategies. EngageLab AppPush’s dynamic AppKey switching function brought tremendous convenience. When users switch countries within the app, the SDK can apply corresponding country/regional SDK configurations through simple API calls. This enables the brand to flexibly develop and implement independent push strategies, user behavior tracking, and marketing campaigns for different markets, without the need to develop and maintain multiple app versions, significantly reducing development and maintenance costs and enhancing regional market responsiveness.
    • Global Multi-Data Center Layout Ensuring Compliant Operations
      In a global environment where data sovereignty and privacy protection are highly valued, compliant handling of user data is crucial for international enterprises. EngageLab has deployed distributed data centers in multiple strategic locations worldwide (including Singapore, Virginia USA, Frankfurt Germany, Hong Kong China, etc.), providing robust localized data compliance solutions. The brand can intelligently select the most appropriate data storage and processing nodes based on users’ regions, strictly adhering to local privacy regulatory requirements.

    About EngageLab
    EngageLab is a world-leading AI-powered omnichannel customer engagement solution provider, unites technology and versatility to offer seamless customer interactions across every channel, including Email, AppPush, WebPush, OTP, SMS and WhatsApp Business. It empowers businesses to build lasting relationships and achieve higher conversions and retention. With a strong focus on innovation and performance, EngageLab supports businesses in over 220 countries and regions, delivering more than 1 million messages every second across various channels.

    For more information about EngageLab and its suite of solutions, visit www.engagelab.com.

    For Media Inquiries:
    Contact: marketing@engagelab.com
    Website: www.engagelab.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile’s EngageLab Empowers Tea Beverage Brand Global Expansion with Customer Engagement Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHENZHEN, China, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced that its subsidiary EngageLab, a leading omni-channel customer engagement platform provider, has partnered with a prominent Chinese tea beverage brand. The partnership will support the brand’s global expansion by leveraging EngageLab’s high-delivery rate AppPush notification capabilities. This Chinese new tea beverage brand has recently achieved a significant breakthrough in overseas markets by presenting Eastern tea culture through a modern lens. Built on a foundation of premium original leaf tea, the brand has strategically expanded across global markets through carefully tailored localization strategies. It has successfully established thousands of stores across more than 100 countries and regions, positioning itself as a leading Chinese brand in the fresh-made tea beverage sector throughout Southeast Asia, North America, and other key markets worldwide.

    With rapid business growth and global expansion, the brand encountered challenges in its overseas notification services, such as unstable channel quality and unreliable message delivery. These issues impacted user experience and the efficiency of global operations.

    To address these challenges, the brand partnered with EngageLab, adopting its AppPush solution to comprehensively optimize overseas messaging services and achieve three major improvements:

    • Superior Delivery Capabilities Supporting Global Expansion

    As the brand expanded to over 100 countries, especially in emerging markets like Southeast Asia, complex network environments posed challenges to efficient communication. EngageLab AppPush integrated international mainstream system channels such as FCM and APNS, along with major smartphone manufacturer push channels including Xiaomi, Huawei, OPPO, vivo, and self-built enhanced channels. This improved message delivery rates by approximately 40%, providing robust technical support for global operations.

    • Intelligent Cross-Regional Push Notifications Enabling Localized Operations

    Operating across diverse countries and regions, the brand faced varying user needs and operational strategies. EngageLab AppPush’s dynamic AppKey switching function brought tremendous convenience. When users switch countries within the app, the SDK can apply corresponding country/regional SDK configurations through simple API calls. This enables the brand to flexibly develop and implement independent push strategies, user behavior tracking, and marketing campaigns for different markets, without the need to develop and maintain multiple app versions, significantly reducing development and maintenance costs and enhancing regional market responsiveness.

    • Global Multi-Data Center Layout Ensuring Compliant Operations

    In a global environment where data sovereignty and privacy protection are highly valued, compliant handling of user data is crucial for international enterprises. EngageLab has deployed distributed data centers in multiple strategic locations worldwide (including Singapore, Virginia USA, Frankfurt Germany, Hong Kong China, etc.), providing robust localized data compliance solutions. The brand can intelligently select the most appropriate data storage and processing nodes based on users’ regions, strictly adhering to local privacy regulatory requirements.

    About EngageLab
    EngageLab is a world-leading AI-powered omnichannel customer engagement solution provider, unites technology and versatility to offer seamless customer interactions across every channel, including Email, AppPush, WebPush, OTP, SMS and WhatsApp Business. It empowers businesses to build lasting relationships and achieve higher conversions and retention. With a strong focus on innovation and performance, EngageLab supports businesses in over 220 countries and regions, delivering more than 1 million messages every second across various channels.
    For more information about EngageLab and its suite of solutions, visit www.engagelab.com.

    About Aurora Mobile Limited
    Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.
    For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    For more information, please contact:
    Aurora Mobile Limited
    E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

    Christensen
    In China
    Ms. Xiaoyan Su
    Phone: +86-10-5900-1548
    E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

    In US
    Ms. Linda Bergkamp
    Phone: +1-480-614-3004
    Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCIO organizes media trip to Jiangsu and Zhejiang

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    SCIO organizes media trip to Jiangsu and Zhejiang

    China SCIO | June 17, 2025

    Since May, the State Council Information Office has organized a series of media trips aimed at introducing how different regions across China are advancing high-quality development and fulfilling the goals set out in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025).

    The second leg of the program was held from June 9 to 13, during which journalists from the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, the Netherlands, Singapore, Indonesia, Turkey, South Korea, Japan, Brazil, and other countries visited Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. They focused on topics such as innovation-driven development, green development, and how major economic provinces are playing a leading role in national growth.

    On June 9, 2025, the State Council Information Office holds a press briefing in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, about the province’s progress in innovation-driven development. [Photo by Luan Haijun/China SCIO]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Kazakhstan’s Participation in OCTOPUS 2025 Strengthens OSCE-Supported International Efforts to Combat Cybercrime

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Kazakhstan’s Participation in OCTOPUS 2025 Strengthens OSCE-Supported International Efforts to Combat Cybercrime

    The delegation of Kazakhstan at the OCTOPUS 2025 held from June 4 to 6, 2025 in Strasbourg (OSCE) Photo details

    From June 4 to 6 2025, a delegation from Kazakhstan participated in the international conference “OCTOPUS 2025 – Conference on Countering Cybercrime”, hosted by the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, France. The participation of the delegation was facilitated by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana within the framework of the extra-budgetary project “Supporting the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Development of Effective Policies to Counter Cybercrimes (Phase I)”, implemented by the Office in co-operation with the Ministry of Interior of Kazakhstan, and under the co-ordination of the Presidential Administration of Kazakhstan.
    The conference convened cybercrime and law enforcement experts from over 100 countries, serving as a premier global forum for addressing evolving cyber threats, fostering international collaboration, and sharing innovative approaches and policy practices.  The delegation from Kazakhstan comprised representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Financial Monitoring Agency, and the Prosecutor General’s Office, as well as OSCE project staff, who actively contributed to plenary discussions, thematic workshops, and bilateral consultations.
    Kazakhstan’s participation advanced the objectives of the OSCE-supported project by enabling national stakeholders to tap into global expertise, establish institutional partnerships, and explore innovative strategies for combating cybercrime. The knowledge and experience gained at the conference will contribute to the formulation of effective national policies and enhance the capacity of Kazakhstan’s law enforcement authorities to respond to complex cyber threats – particularly in areas such as cryptocurrency-related crime, AI-driven cybercriminal activities, and international legal co-operation on electronic evidence.
    Key topics of the conference included the malicious use of artificial intelligence, cyber threats to democratic institutions, and emerging financial fraud schemes such as “pig-butchering” scams. Participants also examined the role of the Second Additional Protocol to the Convention on Cybercrime in facilitating cross-border investigations and improving the admissibility of electronic evidence.
    Kazakhstan’s active engagement in OCTOPUS 2025 underscores its growing commitment to contributing to global efforts against cybercrime. It also reflects the tangible progress of the OSCE-supported project in promoting international collaboration, strengthening national capacities, and reinforcing Kazakhstan’s integration into the global cybercrime response community.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement on the Fact-Finding Mission on the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement on the Fact-Finding Mission on the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

    Statement for the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the Oral Update of the FFM on the eastern DRC. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Simon Manley.

    Thank you, Mr Vice President.

    Let me thank the High Commissioner and the Fact-Finding Mission for their important, indeed chilling, update on the situation in eastern DRC.

    The UK is deeply concerned by the devastating accounts of human rights abuses and violations perpetrated by all parties to the conflict.

    The reported extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detention, sexual violence and forced recruitment of children are simply horrendous.  As are accounts of Rwandan Defence Forces and M23 entrenching administrative control through violence, displacing  civilians, targeting civil society, and  dismantling  legal and civil institutions.

    We urge all parties to protect human rights, respect international humanitarian law and engage meaningfully with the peace processes.

    We also reiterate our call on the DRC to reconsider its decision to lift the moratorium on the death penalty.

    Mr Vice President, we remain convinced that this Council must use all the mechanisms available to investigate reports of human rights violations and abuses in the eastern DRC, identify the perpetrators and end impunity once and for all.

    Mr Vice President, I listened carefully to what the High Commissioner said about the challenges in establishing the independent Commission of Inquiry to continue the Fact-Finding Mission’s important work, but I do think we should try harder to fulfil this Council’s mandate.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government appoints Emma Jones CBE as new Small Business Commissioner to help tackle late payments

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government appoints Emma Jones CBE as new Small Business Commissioner to help tackle late payments

    Government appoints new Small Business Commissioner as part of efforts to boost SMEs and tackle late payments

    • The new Small Business Commissioner has been appointed to take a leading role in tackling late payments and unfair payment practices 

    • Jones brings wealth of entrepreneurial experience as founder of Enterprise Nation to support UK’s 5.5m small businesses 

    • Appointment reinforces government commitment to creating fair business environment as part of Plan for Change 

    As part of the Government’s mission to support small businesses, Emma Jones CBE, founder of Enterprise Nation, has today been announced as the new Small Business Commissioner. 

    She will take up the role on 23rd June 2025 following the completion of Liz Barclay’s four-year term as the current Commissioner.  

    Liz Barclay was instrumental in designing and delivering the new Fair Payment Code which launched in December 2024.  

    Since then, over 300 businesses have already become Fair Payment Code awardees with a commitment to paying their suppliers quickly.  

    Liz has also played a key role in helping design potential future legislative measures to tackle late payments and long payment terms, with a major consultation set to be published in the coming months. 

    Small Business Minister Gareth Thomas said: 

    “I’m delighted that in Emma Jones’s appointment, we have someone who has long championed small firms and entrepreneurs right across the UK. I am confident that her passion and expertise will ensure small firms have a powerful advocate fighting in their corner. 

    “As part of our Plan for Change, I’m determined to make the UK the world’s best place to be an SME, tackling late payments, improving access to finance and getting more small firms exporting around the world – and today’s appointment is a crucial part of that process. 

    “And I want to thank Liz Barclay for her work over the past four years as Commissioner, during which time she has worked tirelessly in supporting the nation’s small businesses.” 

    In her new position, Emma will be a key player in tackling late payments and long payment terms for small businesses and the self-employed. This Government is committed to tackling this problem, which has for too long been a scourge for small businesses. Research has found that in 2024, SMEs were owed on average £21,400 in late payments.

    New Small Business Commissioner Emma Jones CBE said: 

    “Having done it myself, I know the commitment it takes to start and grow a successful business. Founders tell me they are time poor and spending too many precious hours on non-productive work like chasing debt. This is limiting their capacity to focus on growth and we want to change that.

    “Through the Office of the Small Business Commissioner, we will make life easier for small business owners by leveraging technology to speed up payments and access to support.

    “This work will be delivered in partnership with government and industry with a shared desire to enable founders to focus on what they do best and retain the UK’s status as a great place to start and grow a business.”

    The Small Business Commissioner plays a vital role in supporting the UK’s 5.5 million small businesses by working to ensure they are treated fairly by larger companies and can access the support they need to thrive. The office also provides practical advice and resources to help small businesses resolve payment disputes and navigate commercial challenges. 

    The appointment furthers the government’s agenda to create a fair and supportive environment for small businesses to thrive, recognising their critical role in job creation, economic growth and community prosperity across the UK. 

    The Government has already announced a raft of measures to support small firms across the country. 

    A revamped Board of Trade tasked with helping more small firms was launched earlier this year, and comes ahead of a major consultation to tackle the scourge of late payments. 

    Last year, the Treasury extended business rates relief for the hospitality sector and the Business Secretary announced a new Business Growth Service to make it easier and quicker for SMEs to access and benefit from the right government advice and support for their business. 

    This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New films showcase the landscapes of the South West

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New films showcase the landscapes of the South West

    A series of six films co-funded by Natural England highlight the fragile nature of protected sites and how we can all take steps to help our environment.

    Simon Willis filming Prof John Wedgwood Clarke at Kynance. Credit Susan Willis

    The stunning beauty of the South West has inspired many writers and artists, but now Natural England has joined forces with a poet and film maker to create a series of six inspiring videos about nature on protected sites in this corner of the country.

    Taking in protected sites across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset, the films, called “Wild Westcountry Odyssey” are a result of a collaboration between Natural England’s Protected Site Strategies (PSS) Research and Development Programme and the [RENEW Biodiversity project] (https://renewbiodiversity.org.uk/) at the University of Exeter. RENEW (Renewing biodiversity through a people in nature approach) is a collaboration between the University and the  National Trust, funded by the Natural Environment Research Council. It also partners with major conservation bodies like the RSPB and Wildlife Trusts.

    The aim of future Protected Site Strategies will be to ensure the root causes of environmental issues – often driven by factors beyond the sites themselves – are addressed in ways that guarantee wildlife thrives on those sites, while helping nature recovery beyond their boundaries. All six of the Protected Sites chosen for the films are Sites of Special Scientific Interest and Habitat Sites.

    Each film includes two short poems, specially written by John Wedgwood Clarke. The films celebrate the beauty and diversity of nature on the sites and the key achievements and projects that have restored habitats and species and are successfully tackling environmental change and impacts resulting from human activity

    David Burton, Natural England’s Principal Officer for the Protected Site Strategies Implementation and Development programme, said:

    We supported the production of the films to research how creative media can help re-set the relationships between people and nature within the framework of Protected Site Strategies. The approach is to educate and highlight the need for nature recovery to everyone.

    Too often the environment sector has failed to communicate the plight of biodiversity in accessible, positive and thought-provoking ways. For Protected Site Strategies to realise the ambition we have set for them, resetting the relationships between nature and people in ways that build a resilient future for all, we need to harness the power of creative channels for our call to action.

    John, Simon, and the rest of the ‘Wild Westcountry Odyssey’ team have created inspirational stories through film and poetry to help set our first few Protected Site Strategies on their way.

    Simon Willis, filmmaker, said:

    It’s been a privilege to work with all the nature reserves and John. The human effort that goes into keeping them thriving for wildlife is remarkable.

    I hope our images and John’s words encourage people to look beyond the picture postcard and really value the wildlife that makes the South West such a great place to visit.

    John Wedgwood Clarke, Professor of Poetry at the University of Exeter, said:

    The South West’s diverse and beautiful landscapes have been the source of great joy for so many people and have inspired writers and artists over time. But take a closer look and you realise how fragile many of our ecosystems have become and the lengths to which our agencies and charities have to go in order to conserve their biodiversity.

    I hope these films, and the visual and verbal poetry they contain, inspire people to explore this beautiful part of the world and think about how they can support, in whatever way they can, the work the goes in to helping people and nature thrive together in these special places.

    John Clarke at Kynance. Credit Susan Willis

    Professor Rosie Hails, Director of Nature and Science at the National Trust said:

    We know that for people to protect nature and our fragile ecosystems, they have to care for it first.  By using poetry and creating these films we aim to bring the beauty of these six south-west locations into their homes and onto their mobile devices, and to inspire them to visit and to help look after these special places.

    Kynance on the Lizard Peninsula is one of our richest sites for rare and threatened species. The unique geology of granite cliffs with serpentine rocky exposures supports some of our most notable species such as land quilwort, pygmy rush and upright clover amongst the swathes of Cornish heath that make the site a National Nature Reserve. 

    As part of the Trust’s new strategy we will be targeting the rejuvenation of these important plant varieties through innovative management techniques to ensure the special species thrive into the future.

    The first of the films, which features Kynance on The Lizard, is released today on YouTube: https://youtu.be/F4Lpu61T0vM

    Others will be released weekly through to 21 July.

    Notes to editors

    Protected Site Strategies are ambitious and innovative in their approach to addressing the environmental issues impacting Protected Sites. They encourage collaborations with a wide range of stakeholders that operate at a landscape scale. This starts with the understanding that protected sites are representative examples of important places for nature and serve as indicators of healthy, naturally functioning landscapes. If the wildlife and physical environment within sites are compromised by issues such as neglect or pollution, that indicates that the broader landscape is facing challenges that affect both nature and people.

    RENEW is a five year programme led by the University of Exeter and the National Trust and around 30 other partners from various sectors. It is funded by the UKRI Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and aims to tackle the challenges of biodiversity renewal through a people-in-nature approach. This initiative involves a wide range of research to understand how people engage with nature and the opportunities and challenges this presents for nature recovery.

    As a result, finding ways to balance human activities with efforts for nature recovery is central to the work of both RENEW and PSS.

    The short films are being released weekly from Monday, 16 June in the following order

    The sites are: 

    Kynance on the Lizard, Cornwall, 16 June

    Goonhilly Downs National Nature Reserve, Cornwall, 23 June

    Challacombe Farm, Dartmoor, 30 June 

    Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve, Somerset, 7 July

    Exe Estuary, Devon, 14 July

    Otter Estuary, Devon, 21 July

    Film one, Kynance: Celebrates the landscape beauty and the unique wildlife in Kynance and the return of the chough to the Lizard peninsular in Cornwall – the focus of a conservation project by Natural England, the National Trust and local farmers.

    Film two, Goonhilly: Reveals the hidden richness of nature in a seemingly bleak heath and the abandoned workings of a former quarry while celebrating the collaborative conservation efforts of Natural England and local farmers.

    Film three, Challacombe Farm: A film about Challacombe Farm on Dartmoor features a local farmer who has nurtured wildlife habitats across his farm. The farm is part of a future landscape recovery plan to improve conditions for nature across the Moor while helping farms prosper.

    Film four, Westhay Moor: Focusses on a large peat bog restoration project being carried out by Somerset Wildlife Trust. It explores the theme of climate change which is bringing about impacts on nature and people highlights how peat restoration is essential in order to mitigate them.

    Film five, Exe Estuary: Features the Exe Estuary in Devon, a vital refuge for migratory birds of great conservation concern, whose breeding and feeding grounds are increasingly threatened by intensive agriculture, development, and climate change.

    Film six, Otter Estuary: Presents the Lower Otter Restoration Project at Budleigh Salterton and the new wetlands – created by a partnership between Clinton Devon Estates, the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust, the Environment Agency and the Interreg (EU) programme – that absorb the impacts of climate change and attract a wealth of wildlife.

    Photo credits: Susan Willis.

    All footage copyright Simon Willis Films. Clips can be supplied on request.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrations as 17 Ministry of Defence Silver ERS Award winners are announced in Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Celebrations as 17 Ministry of Defence Silver ERS Award winners are announced in Wales

    17 organisations in Wales have been awarded the 2025 Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award among more than 300 nationally.

    Employers in Wales that have actively demonstrated their support for the armed forces community through implementing practical policies in the workplace have been recognised with the prestigious Defence Silver ERS Award.

    The 17 Welsh winners will be invited to receive their award as honoured guests at a Royal Gun Salute ceremony at the Pierhead Building, Cardiff Bay, on 17 July.

    The 17 recipients are:

    • Active4Blood
    • Andy Swan Driver Services Ltd
    • Bulldogs Boxing and Community Activities
    • Cobra Life Martial Arts Ltd
    • Events Medical Team – Saltney Ltd
    • Henry Williams and Son (Roads) Ltd
    • Platts Group
    • Riverside Retreat Veterans Camp CIC
    • Shadow Response Security & Medical Ltd
    • The Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum Trust
    • Business in Focus Limited
    • IG Doors Limited
    • MPH Construction
    • Powys Teaching Health Board
    • R&M Williams Limited
    • V3 Group (UK) Ltd
    • Bridgend College

    Major General Jamie Gordon, Chief Executive of the Council of Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations, said:

    These Silver Award winners are trusted allies of defence. They don’t just talk about support—they show it, every day, through flexible policies, visible advocacy, and long-term commitment to those who serve. This is about more than good intentions, it’s about practical, sustained support that strengthens our national resilience. It is very pleasing that they have been recognised for all they do for our reservists, veterans and cadets.

    Gareth Jones, Veterans Project Manager, Bulldogs Boxing and Community Activities, said:

    Bulldogs BCA is incredibly proud and deeply honoured to have been awarded the Silver Award as part of the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting the armed forces community, including veterans, reservists, and their families.

    We are thrilled that our efforts to provide opportunities, understanding, and practical support have been acknowledged at such a prestigious level. This award not only highlights the values at the heart of Bulldogs BCA, but also strengthens our resolve to continue championing those who have served our country with dedication and respect.

    To achieve Silver, organisations must proactively demonstrate that the armed forces community are not unfairly disadvantaged as part of their recruitment policies. They must also ensure that their workforce is aware of the policies that benefit defence personnel, including reservists, veterans, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, and military families.

    The scheme has 3 levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold, awarded to organisations that support defence personnel and encourage others to do the same.

    Mr Craig Middle, the MOD’s DRM for South Wales, said:

    Achieving the Silver ERS award has been a journey for all of our deserved winners. This journey has involved an exploration into what all aspects of the defence community can do for their teams. Many congratulations to all of this year’s winners – we look forward to celebrating with them in person next month.

    Find out how your organisation can support the armed forces community through the Armed Forces Covenant and Defence Employer Recognition Scheme:

    Contact

    Craig Middle, Defence Relationship Manager (DRM) for South Wales:

    Tony Fish, Defence Relationship Manager (DRM) for North Wales:

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: 2025 NATO Summit programme announced

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    News item | 17-06-2025 | 10:00

    NATO has announced the programme for the summit that will be held in The Hague on 24 and 25 June. Dozens of heads of state and government of NATO countries will meet at the World Forum to discuss international security and current global developments, together with foreign and defence ministers.

    Pre-Summit Press Conference by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte

    On Monday 23 June, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will hold a press conference at the World Forum in The Hague, ahead of the NATO Summit.

    NATO Public Forum

    On both days of the summit (24 and 25 June), interested parties can follow the NATO Public Forum online. During this public event, heads of state and government, ministers, experts, opinion leaders, young people and academics will discuss current issues relating to peace and security. The all-day programme can be followed via NATO Public Forum Live.

    NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum

    The NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum will take place on Tuesday 24 June. Defence ministers, experts and representatives of the defence industry in NATO countries will come together to discuss innovation, cooperation and ways of strengthening the industry.

    Official Meetings

    Two sessions will be held in the World Forum at the same time. The foreign ministers will meet for a working dinner of the NATO-Ukraine Council. And the defence ministers will meet for a working dinner of the North Atlantic Council. A reception for all ministers will be held earlier the same evening.

    Royal Dinner

    On the evening of Tuesday 24 June, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will host an informal dinner for the heads of state and government of the NATO countries. The prime ministers of Australia, Japan and New Zealand, the presidents of South Korea and Ukraine, and the presidents of the European Council and European Commission are also invited to attend.

    North Atlantic Council

    On Wednesday 25 June, the main focus will be on the meeting of the North Atlantic Council, at which theheads of state and government will discuss the most important decisions facing the alliance. After the meeting NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and representatives of the Dutch government and other NATO allies will hold press conferences. Over the course of both days various countries will engage in bilateral talks.

    Programme at Government.nl/nato2025

    The programme for the NATO summit and all side events will be made available at government.nl/nato2025. Check the NATO, NATO Public Forum and NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum websites regularly for the latest information, as the programme is subject to change.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Delivers K-9 Feasibility Assessment Report to Kazakhstan’s Border Service

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE Delivers K-9 Feasibility Assessment Report to Kazakhstan’s Border Service

    Experts visit to K-9 training center in Almaty (OSCE) Photo details

    On 27 May 2025, the OSCE Programme Office in Astana (the Office) officially transmitted the Feasibility Needs Assessment Report: “Breed Programme/Puppy Development” to the Border Service of the National Security Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The report, developed by the OSCE  with expert support from the United Kingdom, reflects the Office’s continued support to national efforts in enhancing specialized capacities for effective border security management.
    Based on an expert visit to the Karaoy K-9 Training Centre of Border Service in Almaty in April 2025, the assessment provides strategic recommendations on improving breeding practices, kennel infrastructure, and operational readiness of K-9 services. It aims to contribute to the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of Kazakhstan’s Border Service K-9 capacities in addressing contemporary security and transnational threats.
    “This report marks more than just the completion of a technical assessment – it signals a shared vision between the OSCE and Kazakhstan’s Border Service to invest in modern, adaptive, and resilient security institutions” said Jaroslaw Kurek, Project Officer, representing the Office.
    The report has laid the foundation for follow-up activities, including potential provision of service dogs, targeted support for kennel infrastructure, and continued collaboration on training and international exchange.
    The initiative forms part of the Office’s extra-budgetary project “Addressing Contemporary Safety and Security Risks in the Republic of Kazakhstan”. The project supports comprehensive approaches to border security, including the enhancement of specialized services and infrastructure in line with international standards.
    The OSCE remains committed to supporting Kazakhstan’s Border Service in strengthening institutional resilience and promoting effective, and modern solutions to current and emerging security challenges.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • Netherlands beat Nepal after first-ever T20 triple Super Over

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Netherlands beat Nepal but needed a record-breaking three Super Overs to clinch victory in their Twenty20 tri-series match in Glasgow on Monday, the first time a triple Super Over has been seen in T20 or limited-overs cricket.

    The Dutch posted 152 for seven and appeared set for the win as Nepal required 16 runs from the final over, but Nandan Yadav scored a boundary on the last ball to force a Super Over.

    Nepal made 19 runs which the Dutch matched thanks to Max O’Dowd hitting a six on the final ball, and a second Super Over was needed for only the second time in men’s international cricket, after India and Afghanistan last year.

    The Netherlands, batting first, hit 17 runs and Nepal again stayed in the match after Dipendra Singh Airee hit a six on the last ball to mark the first instance of a third Super Over.

    It failed to live up to the drama of the previous two with Nepal failing to score a single run and with the Dutch needing just one run, Michael Levitt smashed a six to finally seal the win for the Netherlands.

    The Dutch, who lost their opening match of the series with Scotland on Monday, have a rest day on Tuesday to recover but Nepal are straight back into action against the Scots.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City of Wolverhampton Council awarded funding to tackle the sticky issue of chewing gum

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The council is one of 52 across the country that have successfully applied to the Chewing Gum Task Force, now in its fourth year, for funds to clean gum off pavements and prevent it from being littered again.

    Established by Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) and run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, the Chewing Gum Task Force Grant Scheme is open to councils across the UK who wish to clean up gum in their local areas and invest in long term behaviour change to prevent gum from being dropped in the first place.

    The Task Force is funded by major gum manufacturers including Mars Wrigley and Perfetti Van Melle, with an investment of up to £10 million spread over 5 years.

    Monitoring and evaluation carried out by Behaviour Change – a not for profit social enterprise – has shown that in areas that benefitted from the first and second year of funding, a reduced rate of gum littering of up to 80% was seen in the first 2 months – with reductions still being observed 6 months after targeted street cleansing and the installation of specially designed signage to encourage people to bin their gum.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, cabinet member for resident services at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “We are very pleased to receive this funding through the Chewing Gum Task Force which will be used to make a real difference to the city’s streets.

    “Thoughtlessly discarded gum is unpleasant, unsightly and unacceptable. It has a negative effect on the local environment and is very difficult to remove.

    “Our Street Scene teams work tirelessly to make our streets welcoming to residents and visitors alike and this extra funding will boost their efforts in tackling the problem of thoughtlessly discarded gum.”

    Estimates suggest the annual clean-up cost of chewing gum for councils in the UK is around £7 million and, according to Keep Britain Tidy, around 77% of England’s streets and 99% of retail sites are stained with gum.

    In its third year the Task Force awarded 54 councils grants worth a total of £1.585 million, helping clean an estimated 500,000m2 of pavements.

    Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, Keep Britain Tidy’s chief executive, said: “Chewing gum continues to be an unsightly form of litter in our public spaces – though thankfully the scheme is leading to significant reductions.

    “People need to remember that disposing irresponsibly of their gum causes harm to our environment as it takes years to decompose naturally – and, ultimately, costs the public purse to clean it up.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance issues EUR 10 million zero coupon notes under its MTN programme

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Municipality Finance Plc
    Stock exchange release
    17 June 2025 at 10:00 am (EEST)

    Municipality Finance issues EUR 10 million zero coupon notes under its MTN programme

    Municipality Finance Plc issues EUR 10 million zero coupon notes on 18 June 2025. The maturity date of the notes is 18 June 2065. MuniFin has a right, but no obligation, to redeem the notes early on 18 June 2035.

    The notes are issued under MuniFin’s EUR 50 billion programme for the issuance of debt instruments. The offering circular and the final terms of the notes are available in English on the company’s website at https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/for-investors.

    MuniFin has applied for the notes to be admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki. The public trading is expected to commence on 18 June 2025.

    Goldman Sachs Bank Europe SE acts as the dealer for the issue of the notes.

    MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC

    Further information:

    Joakim Holmström
    Executive Vice President, Capital Markets and Sustainability
    tel. +358 50 444 3638

    MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The owners of the company include Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the State of Finland.
    The Group’s balance sheet is over EUR 53 billion.

    MuniFin builds a better and more sustainable future with its customers. MuniFin’s customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, corporate entities under their control, and non-profit organisations nominated by the Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (ARA). Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

    MuniFin’s customers are domestic but the company operates in a completely global business environment. The company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

    Read more: https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/

    Important Information

    The information contained herein is not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into any such country or jurisdiction or otherwise in such circumstances in which the release, publication or distribution would be unlawful. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    This communication does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or under the applicable securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Decoding PNG leader Marape’s talks with French President Macron

    ANALYSIS: By Scott Waide, RNZ Pacific PNG correspondent

    The recent series of high-level agreements between Papua New Guinea and France marks a significant development in PNG’s geopolitical relationships, driven by what appears to be a convergence of national interests.

    The “deepening relationship” is less about a single personality and more about a calculated alignment of economic, security, and diplomatic priorities with PNG, taking full advantage of its position as the biggest, most strategically placed island player in the Pacific.

    An examination of the key outcomes reveals a partnership of mutual benefit, reflecting both PNG’s strategic diversification and France’s own long-term ambitions as a Pacific power.

    A primary driver is the shared economic rationale. From Port Moresby’s perspective, the partnership offers a clear path to economic diversification and resilience.

    But many in PNG have been watching with keen interest and asking: how badly does PNG want this?

    While Prime Minister James Marape offered France a Special Economic Zone in Port Moresby (SEZ) for French businesses, he also named the lookout at Port Moresby’s Variarata National Park after President Emmanuel Macron drawing the ire of many in the country.

    The proposal to establish a SEZ specifically for French industries is a notable attempt to attract capital from beyond PNG’s traditional partners.

    Strategically coupled
    This is strategically coupled with securing the future of the multi-billion-dollar Papua LNG project.

    Macron’s personal undertaking to work with TotalEnergies to keep the project on schedule provides crucial stability for one of PNG’s most significant economic ventures.

    For France, these arrangements secure a major energy investment for its national corporate champion and establish a stronger economic foothold in a strategically vital region between Asia and the Pacific.

    In the area of security, the relationship addresses tangible needs for both nations.

    PNG is faced with the immense challenge of monitoring a 2.4 million sq km Exclusive Economic Zone, making it vulnerable to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

    The finalisation of a Shiprider Agreement with France provides a practical force-multiplier, leveraging French naval assets to enhance PNG’s maritime surveillance capabilities. This move, along with planned defence talks on air and maritime cooperation, allows PNG to diversify its security architecture.

    For France, a resident power with Pacific territories like New Caledonia and French Polynesia, participating in regional security operations reinforces its role and commitment to stability in the Indo-Pacific.

    Elevating diplomatic influence
    The partnership is also a vehicle for elevating diplomatic influence.

    Port Moresby has noted the significance of engaging with a partner that holds permanent membership on the UN Security Council and seats at the G7 and G20.

    This alignment provides PNG with a powerful channel to global decision-making forums. The reciprocal move to establish a PNG embassy in Paris further cements the relationship on a mature footing.

    The diplomatic synergy is perhaps best illustrated by France’s full endorsement of PNG’s bid to host a future UN Ocean Conference. This support provides PNG with a major opportunity to lead on the world stage, while allowing France to demonstrate its credentials as a key partner to the Pacific Islands.

    This deepening PNG-France partnership does not exist in a vacuum.

    It is unfolding within a broader context of heightened geopolitical competition across the Pacific.

    The West’s view of China’s rapid emergence as a dominant economic and military force in the region has reshaped the strategic landscape, prompting traditional powers to re-engage with renewed urgency.

    increased diplomatic footprint
    The United States has responded by significantly increasing its diplomatic and security footprint, a move marked by Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Port Moresby to sign the Defence Cooperation Agreement.

    Similarly, Australia, PNG’s traditional security partner, is working to reinforce its long-standing influence through initiatives like the multi-million-dollar deal to establish a PNG team in its National Rugby League (NRL), a soft-power exercise reportedly linked to security outcomes.

    This competitive environment has, in turn, created greater agency for Pacific nations, allowing them to diversify their partnerships beyond old allies and providing a fertile ground for European powers like France to assert their own strategic interests.

    A strong foundation for the relationship is a shared public stance on environmental stewardship. The agreement on the need for rigorous scientific studies before any deep-sea mining occurs aligns PNG’s national policy with a position of environmental caution.

    This common ground extends to broader climate action, where France’s commitment to conservation in the Pacific resonates with PNG’s status as a frontline nation vulnerable to climate change.

    This alignment on values provides a durable and politically important basis for cooperation, allowing both nations to jointly advocate for climate justice and ocean protection.

    For the Papua New Guinea economy, this deepening partnership with France is critically important as it provides high-level stability for the multi-billion-dollar Papua LNG project and creates a direct pathway for new investment through a proposed SEZ for French businesses.

    Vital economic resource
    Furthermore, by moving to finalise a Shiprider Agreement to combat illegal fishing, the government is actively protecting a vital economic resource.

    For Marape’s credibility in local politics, these outcomes are tangible successes he can present to the nation as he battles a massive credibility dip in recent years.

    Securing a personal undertaking from the leader of a G7 nation, gaining support for PNG to host a future UN Ocean Conference, and enhancing national security demonstrates effective leadership on the world stage.

    This allows him to build a narrative of a competent statesman who, through “warm, personal relationships”, can deliver on promises of economic opportunity and national security while strengthening his political standing at home.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Decoding PNG leader Marape’s talks with French President Macron

    ANALYSIS: By Scott Waide, RNZ Pacific PNG correspondent

    The recent series of high-level agreements between Papua New Guinea and France marks a significant development in PNG’s geopolitical relationships, driven by what appears to be a convergence of national interests.

    The “deepening relationship” is less about a single personality and more about a calculated alignment of economic, security, and diplomatic priorities with PNG, taking full advantage of its position as the biggest, most strategically placed island player in the Pacific.

    An examination of the key outcomes reveals a partnership of mutual benefit, reflecting both PNG’s strategic diversification and France’s own long-term ambitions as a Pacific power.

    A primary driver is the shared economic rationale. From Port Moresby’s perspective, the partnership offers a clear path to economic diversification and resilience.

    But many in PNG have been watching with keen interest and asking: how badly does PNG want this?

    While Prime Minister James Marape offered France a Special Economic Zone in Port Moresby (SEZ) for French businesses, he also named the lookout at Port Moresby’s Variarata National Park after President Emmanuel Macron drawing the ire of many in the country.

    The proposal to establish a SEZ specifically for French industries is a notable attempt to attract capital from beyond PNG’s traditional partners.

    Strategically coupled
    This is strategically coupled with securing the future of the multi-billion-dollar Papua LNG project.

    Macron’s personal undertaking to work with TotalEnergies to keep the project on schedule provides crucial stability for one of PNG’s most significant economic ventures.

    For France, these arrangements secure a major energy investment for its national corporate champion and establish a stronger economic foothold in a strategically vital region between Asia and the Pacific.

    In the area of security, the relationship addresses tangible needs for both nations.

    PNG is faced with the immense challenge of monitoring a 2.4 million sq km Exclusive Economic Zone, making it vulnerable to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

    The finalisation of a Shiprider Agreement with France provides a practical force-multiplier, leveraging French naval assets to enhance PNG’s maritime surveillance capabilities. This move, along with planned defence talks on air and maritime cooperation, allows PNG to diversify its security architecture.

    For France, a resident power with Pacific territories like New Caledonia and French Polynesia, participating in regional security operations reinforces its role and commitment to stability in the Indo-Pacific.

    Elevating diplomatic influence
    The partnership is also a vehicle for elevating diplomatic influence.

    Port Moresby has noted the significance of engaging with a partner that holds permanent membership on the UN Security Council and seats at the G7 and G20.

    This alignment provides PNG with a powerful channel to global decision-making forums. The reciprocal move to establish a PNG embassy in Paris further cements the relationship on a mature footing.

    The diplomatic synergy is perhaps best illustrated by France’s full endorsement of PNG’s bid to host a future UN Ocean Conference. This support provides PNG with a major opportunity to lead on the world stage, while allowing France to demonstrate its credentials as a key partner to the Pacific Islands.

    This deepening PNG-France partnership does not exist in a vacuum.

    It is unfolding within a broader context of heightened geopolitical competition across the Pacific.

    The West’s view of China’s rapid emergence as a dominant economic and military force in the region has reshaped the strategic landscape, prompting traditional powers to re-engage with renewed urgency.

    increased diplomatic footprint
    The United States has responded by significantly increasing its diplomatic and security footprint, a move marked by Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Port Moresby to sign the Defence Cooperation Agreement.

    Similarly, Australia, PNG’s traditional security partner, is working to reinforce its long-standing influence through initiatives like the multi-million-dollar deal to establish a PNG team in its National Rugby League (NRL), a soft-power exercise reportedly linked to security outcomes.

    This competitive environment has, in turn, created greater agency for Pacific nations, allowing them to diversify their partnerships beyond old allies and providing a fertile ground for European powers like France to assert their own strategic interests.

    A strong foundation for the relationship is a shared public stance on environmental stewardship. The agreement on the need for rigorous scientific studies before any deep-sea mining occurs aligns PNG’s national policy with a position of environmental caution.

    This common ground extends to broader climate action, where France’s commitment to conservation in the Pacific resonates with PNG’s status as a frontline nation vulnerable to climate change.

    This alignment on values provides a durable and politically important basis for cooperation, allowing both nations to jointly advocate for climate justice and ocean protection.

    For the Papua New Guinea economy, this deepening partnership with France is critically important as it provides high-level stability for the multi-billion-dollar Papua LNG project and creates a direct pathway for new investment through a proposed SEZ for French businesses.

    Vital economic resource
    Furthermore, by moving to finalise a Shiprider Agreement to combat illegal fishing, the government is actively protecting a vital economic resource.

    For Marape’s credibility in local politics, these outcomes are tangible successes he can present to the nation as he battles a massive credibility dip in recent years.

    Securing a personal undertaking from the leader of a G7 nation, gaining support for PNG to host a future UN Ocean Conference, and enhancing national security demonstrates effective leadership on the world stage.

    This allows him to build a narrative of a competent statesman who, through “warm, personal relationships”, can deliver on promises of economic opportunity and national security while strengthening his political standing at home.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Beninese small business gain international presence and know-how

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    Download logo

    Benin wants to grow its exports, especially by small businesses working in food and technology. The African country believes this is the best way to lift its economy from the ranks of least developed countries.

    A key milestone in that effort is the creation of a new Pôle Export, a platform that will make it easier for entrepreneurs to enter international markets.

    Pôle Export is the centrepiece of a project at the Interantional Trade Centre (ITC), which is working with both the government and with small businesses to boost the country’s exports.

    The government has created new Directorate for Export Promotion, known by its French acronym DPE. It sits within the Import and Export Promotion Agency (APIEx), but it’s more than an organizational change. It’s a new way of thinking about exports, with a targeted approach that focuses on agribusiness and digital trade.

    Since February, the Pôle Export is has its own director to coordinate its activities. A team of government trade exports has been assigned to support him, along with eight Beninese consultants recruited by ITC to build up their skills.

    Three advisors are focussed on priority export areas, including agribusinesses and textiles and clothing. Three others have already worked with 21 small business on their branding and e-commerce operations. Two more will provide DPE staff with training in market analysis tools. 

    The ITC work is under a project called Support to operationalize the APIEx Pôle Export, known simply as ProPex. The Embassy of the Netherlands funds the project, which began in February 2025. A steering committee meeting on 6 May marked ProPex’s official launch.

    The Export Promotion Directorate is the backbone of Benin’s ambitions to expand into international markets, offering targeted export support services tailored to priority sectors,’ said ITC country manager Ludmila Azo. ‘Through the PROPEX project, we aim to strengthen this institutional lever by providing it with the skills, tools and systems necessary to provide strategic and high-impact support to SMEs ready to export.’

    Upgrading digital services

    The APIEx website is being upgraded to include trade information tools, as well as a small business marketplace and sector-specific content.

    ProPex stands out because of how it centres participatory governance. Three thematic working groups structure their services within the National Export Strategy, which was also crafted with ITC support.

    Regular briefings between ITC, APIEx and other partners ensure close monitoring of progress. By focussing on sustainability and capitalization, ProPex is laying the foundation for a robust export ecosystem in Benin.

    – on behalf of International Trade Centre.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Agreement on suspending short-stay visa-free travel to respond to security concerns and rights violations

    Source: European Parliament 3

    EP and Council teams have reached an agreement on grounds for suspending visa-free travel for short stays into the EU.

    A reform of the mechanism to suspend short-stay visa-free travel into the EU, agreed today between Parliament and Council negotiating teams, will allow the EU to respond more flexibly when countries backslide on important principles of their visa waiver agreement, which can include security concerns and human rights violations.


    New grounds for suspension

    In future, violations of the United Nations Charter, severe breaches of international human rights or humanitarian law, and not complying with international court decisions will be valid grounds for suspending visa-freedom. This helps align the grounds for suspension with the grounds for granting the visa waiver in the first place, and can create a deterrent effect.

    With the new law, additional grounds for suspending the visa waiver will include hybrid threats, such as state-sponsored instrumentalisation of migrants aimed at destabilising or undermining society; and investor citizenship schemes (“golden passports”), which raise security concerns. A country’s lack of alignment with EU visa policy, potentially making it a transit country for illegal entry into the EU, will also be a valid ground for suspending visa-free regimes. Existing grounds, including a lack of cooperation on readmissions, will be maintained.


    No impunity for third-country government officials

    To deter third-country governments from violating the terms of their short-stay visa waiver agreement, the agreed law gives the EU more flexibility to target government officials (who may bear responsibility for a government’s human rights breaches or other violations) with suspensions of visa freedom.

    Based on an EP proposal, it was agreed that the Commission can prevent member states from exempting from visa suspension diplomatic and service passport carrying government and state officials.

    Under current legislation, “substantial” increases in numbers of people staying without permission, of asylum applications from a country with a low recognition rate, or of serious criminal offences can also trigger visa freedom suspension. During negotiations, it was agreed that the threshold for assessing such an increase will be set to 30 %. The threshold for calculating a low recognition rate of asylum application will be set at 20 %. In well-justified cases, the Commission can also deviate from these thresholds.


    Quote

    After the vote, rapporteur Matjaž Nemec (S&D, Slovenia) said: “Reformed visa rules will give the EU a revamped tool to respond to geopolitical situations and new threats. Visa policy can contribute to upholding EU values by ensuring that there are consequences when a foreign government breaches human rights and international law. In such cases, their government representatives and diplomats should have their visa-free access to the EU revoked, and this agreement makes that more likely.”


    Next steps

    Before it can enter into law, the provisional agreement needs to be formally adopted by both Parliament and Council.


    Background

    Nationals of 61 third countries can currently travel to the Schengen area for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) without a visa (source: EP Research Service). See also this Council website for a map of current visa agreements.

    According to the current law, the European Commission (following a proposal by a concerned member state or on its own initiative) can start the process of suspending visa-free travel from third countries into the Schengen area, first temporarily, pending further investigation and dialogue with the country in question, and then permanently if the issues are not resolved. To date, visa freedom has only been revoked once, in the case of Vanuatu.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Bamboo boom: Anji’s bamboo industry drives green development

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China SCIO | June 17, 2025

    Photo taken on June 12, 2025 shows the view of Yucun village of Anji county, eastern China’s Zhejiang province. Anji county has made great efforts to promote the green development in rural areas. [Photo by Cui Can/China SCIO]

    In the lush hills of Anji county, eastern China’s Zhejiang province, summer comes with the dense, whispering green of bamboo forests. Here, a single stalk of bamboo, humble and fast-growing, can find its way into upscale European restaurants as sleek dinnerware, or appear as a minimalist bamboo lamp on the shelves of MUJI and IKEA stores worldwide.

    With about 720 square kilometers of bamboo groves, Anji has embraced bamboo as both a cultural symbol and an economic resource. Today, it is emerging as a pioneer in developing bamboo industry to drive green development. 

    “Bamboo is not only tough and durable, but also renewable,” said Liu Yu, chief expert of the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Ecology and Environment. “Compared to wood, which can take over a decade to mature, bamboo is harvest-ready in just four to six years and can regrow without replanting.”

    Liu also noted that responsible harvesting benefits the ecosystem. “If left uncut, bamboo becomes prone to disease and pests. Its aggressive root system can also outcompete other plant life, reducing biodiversity.”

    A worker processes bamboo at a company in Anji county of Huzhou city, Zhejiang province, June 13, 2025. [Photo by Cui Can/China SCIO]

    To harness bamboo’s environmental potential, China in 2022 launched a “Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastic” initiative in collaboration with the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization. A year later, the National Development and Reform Commission and several other government departments introduced a three-year action plan to accelerate initiative. Anji was named one of the program’s first demonstration bases.

    Currently, more than 1,000 enterprises in Anji are involved in the bamboo industry, over 40 of which are large-scale operations. Around 70% of their products are exported to markets like the U.S., Europe, Japan, and South Korea, said Zhou Jihui, who oversees the “Bamboo for Plastic” project at Anji Development and Reform Bureau.

    Photo taken on June 13, 2025 shows the bamboo packaging, lighting, and tableware produced by a company in Anji county of Huzhou city, Zhejiang province. [Photo by Cui Can/China SCIO]

    Zhejiang Fenghui Bamboo and Wooden Products Co. Ltd., founded in 1990, is one of Anji’s largest bamboo manufacturers and exporters. When General Manager Liang Fenghui took over the business from his father in 2014, the company focused on low-value raw products like bamboo poles and fences. “The profit margins were slim, and environmental standards were rising. Many companies shut down, and some bamboo forests were abandoned,” he recalled. “We had to transform.”

    The company began to invest in developing a more diversified product line, ranging from bamboo kitchenware and dining items to garden products. It now offers a portfolio of over 1,000 bamboo products.

    And as Anji aligns itself with China’s broader green development strategy, local bamboo manufacturers like Fenghui are making sustainability a priority. “Our production process is now cleaner, and we’ve developed machinery that improves material utilization by at least 20%,” Liang said. 

    Today, Bamboo tableware accounts for 60% of the company’s revenue. It exports bamboo packaging, lighting, and tableware to clients across Japan, France, Spain, and the U.S. In 2024, the company’s export value reached 150 million yuan (about US$21 million), with Japan and France each accounting for 20% of sales, and the U.S. around 10%.

    According to Zhou of Anji Development and Reform Bureau, the county’s bamboo sector has improved incomes for more than 51,000 local farming households. In 2024 alone, bamboo-related income increased each household’s earnings by an average of 6,500 yuan. “And 167 village collectives each saw their revenues grow by more than 1 million yuan,” she said.

    Photo taken on June 13, 2025 shows bamboo tableware at a company in Anji county of Huzhou city, Zhejiang Province. [Photo by Cui Can/China SCIO]

    As Anji accelerates its “Bamboo for Plastic” initiative, the county has been exploring more ways to bring bamboo into everyday life. In hospitality, bamboo toothbrushes, combs, and takeaway cutlery are replacing plastics. In local markets, plastic bags have been gradually phased out in favor of biodegradable ones made from bamboo powder. “They decompose within three months and are stronger than plastics,” Zhou noted.

    And whereas plastic products are generally cheaper than bamboo products of the same kind, Zhou said price isn’t always the key concern. “Consumers, especially in hospitality, often care more about the product’s look and whether it matches their brand image than about the cost. That gives us more room to innovate.”

    To meet this rising demand, Liang is investing in design and branding. “We’re incorporating traditional Chinese cultural elements into packaging and product design to appeal to younger consumers. And with cross-border e-commerce platforms, we’re reaching more global audiences.”

    In 2024, the total output value of Anji’s bamboo industry reached 19.2 billion yuan, up 7% over the previous year, according to Zhou. “That was nearly 2.6 billion yuan more than in 2022. The growth momentum is very strong.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM meeting with President Macron of France: 16 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM meeting with President Macron of France: 16 June 2025

    The Prime Minister met French President Emmanuel Macron at the G7 Summit this afternoon.

    The Prime Minister met French President Emmanuel Macron at the G7 Summit this afternoon.

    Discussing the Middle East, they both agreed on the need to find a route to peace through diplomacy and dialogue. They agreed that this should be a key focus for G7 partners in the next two days.

    They looked ahead to the upcoming UK-France Summit in July and agreed that their teams should pursue high-ambition outcomes that deliver for the British and French people. 

    Migration should be a key focus given the deteriorating situation in the Channel, they confirmed – adding that they should continue to work closely with other partners to find innovative ways to drive forward progress.

    They also agreed that the summit presents an opportune moment to further enhance our existing defence and security co-operation. 

    Both leaders looked ahead to discussing Ukraine at the G7 tomorrow and underscored their enduring support for securing a just and lasting peace and keeping up the pressure on Putin.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Telstra and Nokia partner to unlock network APIs for developers and enterprises

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release
    Telstra and Nokia partner to unlock network APIs for developers and enterprises

    • Telstra’s muru-D Labs, a hub for incubating ideas, products, and technologies, will make network APIs available in a lab environment on Nokia’s Network as Code platform with developer portal.
    • The collaboration targets industry use cases for enterprises that leverage CAMARA and GSMA Open Gateway APIs.

    17 June 2025
    Espoo, Finland – Telstra, Australia’s leading telecommunications company, and Nokia today announced a new collaboration that will give developers secure access to network APIs to help build smarter applications and integrate them into advanced new use cases for enterprises and industries.

    Under the agreement, Telstra’s muru-D Labs will provide access to a select mix of live and simulated network APIs on Nokia’s Network as Code platform with developer portal, designed to make it easier for developers to build, test, and deploy new applications that securely tap into Telstra’s advanced network capabilities.

    The collaboration will focus on real-world use cases across industries, such as managing network traffic during large events, improving network observability, and prioritising critical services. The partnership will also explore Fixed Network use cases, having the developer platform consume API’s from Nokia’s service orchestration software already deployed in Telstra.

    Kim Krogh Andersen, Group Executive Product & Technology at Telstra, said the new collaboration reflects the company’s recently announced Connected Future 30 strategy and focus on delivering increasingly sophisticated and flexible connectivity capabilities to meet evolving customer needs. Core to this strategy is ‘Network as a Product,’ which aims to reinvent how Telstra creates and captures value from its networks by productising sophisticated network capabilities and opening up new business models.

    “We’re radically innovating at the core of our business and pushing the boundaries of our network leadership, so that our customers can get the connectivity they need in a changing environment. This new collaboration with Nokia is another way we are testing and learning how the power of the network can unlock new value in the tech ecosystem.”

    “By giving access to advanced capabilities through our network APIs, we’re enabling developers to create smarter, more responsive applications for enterprises. This is about working with our partner ecosystem to demonstrate how developers can securely interact with Telstra’s network and innovate at scale,” Andersen said.

    The initiative will include a local hackathon later this year, giving developers access to a selection of live network APIs and a sandbox environment to experiment with new ideas. This new collaboration builds on Telstra and Nokia’s long-standing partnership and supports Telstra’s Network as a Product vision of a software-defined, programmable network.

    Nokia’s network automation and Digital Operations solutions are laying the foundation for scalable API enablement by making it easier for partners, like Telstra, to offer developers on-demand access to programmable network capabilities with consistency and speed.

    “Our collaboration will deepen Telstra’s network integration into developer ecosystems and provide developers with greater choice, flexibility, and security in creating new applications,” said Shkumbin Hamiti, Vice-President and Head of Nokia’s Network Monetization Platform, Cloud and Network Services at Nokia. “As more developers explore network APIs, their feedback will shape the next generation of services, and we are excited to work alongside Telstra to drive this.”

    Nokia’s network API strategy centers around connecting multiple API ecosystems through its Network as Code platform. It offers operators the broadest range of network enablement options with robust multi-tier API security and provides developers simplified access to network functionalities.

    Nokia’s ecosystem of Network as Code platform partners has grown to over 50 and includes operators from around the world, as well hyperscalers, Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) platform providers, systems integrators, and vertical independent software vendors.

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. 

     As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.  

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable, and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future. 

    About Telstra
    Telstra is Australia’s leading telecommunications and technology company. We offer a full range of services and compete in all telecommunications markets in Australia, operating the largest mobile and wi-fi networks. Globally, we provide end-to-end solutions including managed network services, global connectivity, cloud, voice, colocation, conferencing and satellite solutions. We have licenses in Asia, Europe and the United States and offer access to more than 2,000 points of presence across the globe. For more information visit www.telstra.com.

    About Telstra muru-D
    muru-D is Telstra’s hub for incubating ideas, products, and technologies, and plays a pivotal role in accelerating a portfolio of ~80 startup investments. The name muru-D has a meaningful origin rooted in the Sydney Aboriginal Eora language—muru means “path,” symbolising a journey or direction, while the D stands for “digital,” representing our focus on digital innovation. Together, muru-D signifies a pathway to digital innovation. 

    muru-D explores emerging technologies and rapidly prototype solutions, drawing on deep expertise in 5G, IoT, connectivity, edge computing, and applied AI. Through partnerships with industry, experts, and universities, we co-develop real-world solutions to real-world problems. Our process includes prototyping, proof-of-concepts, customer trials, hackathons and human-centred design workshops. 

    In addition to supporting Telstra’s innovation mission, muru-D backs founders driving social and technological impact across AI, VR, AR, drones, satellites, and robotics—amplifying innovation through our growing portfolio of startups. www.telstra.com.au/business-enterprise/muru-d 

    Media inquiries
    Nokia Press Office
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Telstra
    Steve Carey, General Manager Media 
    Phone: +61 413 988 640 
    Email: media@team.telstra.com                  

    Connect with Nokia on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Joins UNICEF Game Changers Coalition to Provide Blockchain Education to 300K People in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles and LUXEMBOURG, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has entered a three-year partnership with UNICEF Luxembourg to advance digital skills and blockchain literacy among young people.

    The partnership enrolls Bitget into the Game Changers Coalition (GCC) led by UNICEF Office of Innovation (OOI). Support from Bitget will help reach 300,000 people – including adolescent girls, parents, mentors and teachers with blockchain skills – across eight countries; Armenia, Brazil, Cambodia, India, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Morocco, and South Africa.

    Photo from Press Conference (from left to right): Paul Heber, Chief Communications Officer, UNICEF Luxembourg; Gracy Chen, CEO, Bitget; Yannick Naud, Innovative Finance, UNICEF Luxembourg

    Through the partnership, Bitget Academy, the educational arm of Bitget, will help develop UNICEF’s first interactive, online and in-person blockchain training module based on video games creation skills development for teachers and young people. This is a welcome inclusion to a curriculum already reaching hundreds of thousands of people. Support from Bitget will also help expand the Coalition’s reach to a ninth country.

    “This partnership reflects our shared belief that digital skills are a powerful driver of opportunity and inclusion,” said Sandra Visscher, Executive Director of UNICEF Luxembourg. “By collaborating with Bitget, we want to provide adolescents and young people with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to shape their own futures. Innovation should be a force for inclusion, opening doors, broadening horizons, and ensuring that technology works for everyone, everywhere.”

    In a move to extend the ecosystem’s reach, Bitget will also aim to introduce UNICEF to leading blockchain protocols and developers from across the Web3 landscape to participate in the educational initiative. These contributors could serve as mentors and partners, offering diverse perspectives and possibilities for blockchain technologies.

    “Emerging technologies should not be reserved for the privileged few—they must be introduced early and equitably. Blockchain, with its real-world use case and potential for social good, is one of the most powerful tools we can give to our younger generation to build products that change the way we look at modern society. With Blockchain4Her, what began as a mission to empower hundreds of women has scaled into a global movement to educate thousands of girls. This is the kind of scale and impact blockchain was built for,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget.

    Every year, adolescent girls and young women in low and middle-income countries miss out on USD 15 billion in economic opportunities due to a gap in internet access and digital skills relative to their male peers. With 90 per cent of jobs today requiring digital competencies, the Game Changers Coalition responds to the urgency of closing the gender digital skills gap.

    Together, Bitget and UNICEF are working to build a scalable, inclusive model that equips young women with the tools to navigate and shape the digital economy of tomorrow.

    As part of the Game Changers Coalition, Bitget joins the Global Video Game Coalition, Micron Foundation and ecosystem builders – Women in Games in a shared ambition to reach 1.1 million girls by 2027, with learning and skills-building opportunities.

    With the help of Bitget Academy, and support from the $10M initiative Blockchain4Her, Bitget plans to enhance digital literacy and financial independence among women taught to them at a young age.

    Bitget’s Blockchain4Her initiative has previously supported women through mentorship programs, funding opportunities, and educational resources.

    Together, Bitget and UNICEF Luxembourg aim to empower a new generation of girls with the knowledge and skills they need to participate actively in the evolving crypto economy.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist), and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to allocate only funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    Bitget

    This is not the first time Bitget has worked with an UN agency. Gracy Chen, is a UN women delegate. During last Ramadan, Bitget partnered up with world-renowned humanitarian organizations, including the UN Refugee Agency, UN World Food Programme, ShareTheMeal, and the One Billion Meals Endowment to donate thousands of meals. Under $10M Blockchain4Her, promising projects led by women were supported and awards were rewarded for the inspiring contributions of more. Hosting over 10 meetups globally, more than a thousand women participated in networking, learning, and driving innovation in the blockchain space.

    About UNICEF

    UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to reach the most disadvantaged children and build a better world for every child.
    UNICEF Luxembourg supports this global mission by mobilizing private sector partnerships and voluntary contributions. It also advocates nationally to uphold children’s rights—focusing on reducing inequalities, promoting gender equality, tackling child poverty, supporting mental well-being, and improving access to justice for every child.

    Disclaimer: UNICEF does not endorse any company, brand, product or service. This partnership is focused solely on supporting education outcomes for children.

    For more information, visit: Website | Facebook | Instagram | x.com | LinkedIn
    For media inquiries, please contact: UNICEF Luxembourg, Paul Heber, Chief Communication | T (+352) 448715 | M (+352)691198105 | pheber@unicef.lu

    About the Game Changers Coalition
    Building on UNICEF’s existing work of providing girls with digital and 21st-century skills through the Skills4Girls portfolio, spanning 22 countries and reaching close to 6 million girls, the Game Changers Coalition is UNICEF’s platform to convene the video gaming sector and tech industry with the aim to equip this and coming generation of girls with the skills they need and want in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) to become coders, designers, and leaders of a more inclusive, diverse, and safer digital future.

    Find out more here.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0daf6ba6-21cd-44dc-a7f0-fee2a8efbf28
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d0a53fb7-9043-4464-af17-4ac1043cd304

    The MIL Network –

  • EU readies ban on Russian gas imports by end of 2027

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The European Commission is set to propose on Tuesday a ban on EU imports of Russian gas and liquefied natural gas by the end of 2027, using legal measures to ensure the plan cannot be blocked by EU members Hungary and Slovakia.

    The proposals will set out how the European Union plans to fix into law its vow to end decades-old energy relations with Europe’s former top gas supplier Russia, made after Moscow’s 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

    An internal Commission summary of the upcoming proposal, seen by Reuters, said it would fix into law a ban on imports of Russian pipeline gas and LNG from January 1, 2026, with longer deadlines for certain contracts.

    Short-term Russian gas deals signed before June 17, 2025 would have a one-year transition period, to June 17, 2026, it said.

    Imports under existing long-term Russian contracts would then be banned from January 1, 2028 – effectively ending the EU’s use of Russian gas by this date, the summary said.

    Companies including TotalEnergies TTEF.PA and Spain’s Naturgy NTGY.MC have Russian LNG contracts extending into the 2030s.

    EU LNG terminals would also be gradually banned from providing services to Russian customers, and companies importing Russian gas would have to disclose information on their contracts to EU and national authorities, Reuters previously reported.

    The plans could still change before they are published.

    EU energy commissioner Dan Jorgensen said on Monday the measures were designed to be legally strong enough for companies to invoke the contractual clause of “force majeure” – an unforeseeable event – to break their Russian gas contracts.

    “Since this will be a prohibition, a ban, the companies will not get into legal problems. This is force majeure, as it [would be] if it had been a sanction,” Jorgensen told reporters.

    NO VETO

    Slovakia and Hungary, which have sought to maintain close political ties to Russia, still import Russian gas via pipeline and say switching to alternatives would increase energy prices. They have vowed to block sanctions on Russian energy, which require unanimous approval from all EU countries, and have opposed the ban.

    To get around this, the Commission’s proposals will use an EU legal basis that can be passed with support from a reinforced majority of countries and a majority of the European Parliament, EU officials said.

    While most other EU countries have signalled support for the ban, officials said some importing countries have raised concerns about the risk to companies of financial penalties or arbitration for breaking contracts.

    Around 19% of Europe’s gas still comes from Russia, via the TurkStream pipeline and LNG shipments – down from roughly 45% before 2022. Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Spain are among those that import Russian LNG.

    “We fully support this plan in principle, with the aim of ensuring that we find the right solutions to provide maximum security for businesses,” French industry minister Marc Ferracci told reporters on Monday.

    (Reuters)

     

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Algernon Yau to visit France

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau will depart this evening for France, where he will visit Toulouse, Bordeaux, Cognac and Paris to promote Hong Kong’s favourable business environment and its advantages as a wine and liquor trading hub. 

    During the trip, the commerce chief will meet representatives of the French business sector and attend business roundtables to exchange views with local wine and liquor producers.

    He will also attend the China Forum 2025, organised by Business France, to promote Hong Kong’s unique role as a gateway to the Mainland market.

    Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong on the morning of June 26. During his absence, Under Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Bernard Chan will be Acting Secretary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IT chief tours Dutch startup incubator

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong toured a startup incubator and community workspace and met local officials during a visit to the Netherlands earlier this week.

    Prof Sun paid a visit to the Amsterdam Venture Studios Startup Village. Using converted containers as offices, the village currently comprises 35 startups focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum technology, and aims to promote interaction, collaboration and knowledge sharing among them.

    At the village, Prof Sun visited Omni Wind Tech BV, a Dutch startup that is developing compact wind turbines for commercial and community settings. He was briefed on its strategies and core technologies, and learned about its efforts to promote sustainable development through green innovation.

    Prof Sun also visited Nearfield Instruments, a supplier of advanced metrology solutions for the semiconductor industry. The company focuses on high-precision measurement technology to support manufacturing in the high-end nano-electronics industry.

    Later on, Prof Sun met Deputy Director-General for Foreign Economic Relations in the Netherlands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs Yvette Van Eechoud to exchange views on promoting innovation and technology (I&T) collaboration.

    Prof Sun said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government attaches great importance to maintaining relations with European countries, including the Netherlands.

    He emphasised that as an international city, Hong Kong has long played the role of a super connector and super value-adder. He added that the current-term Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to developing the city as an international I&T centre and that there is therefore broad scope for collaboration between Hong Kong and the Netherlands on I&T.

    The technology chief also called on Charge d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in the Netherlands He Shiqing and briefed him on Hong Kong’s efforts to deepen international exchanges and co-operation and achieve better integration into China’s national development.

    Prof Sun thanked the embassy for supporting enhanced co-operation between Hong Kong and the Netherlands in I&T development and for helping to attract enterprises and investment.

    Prof Sun’s visit to the Netherland has concluded and he will return to Hong Kong tomorrow morning.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –